Beginning at a beach with the softest sand on the island, and winding around the entire West side to the North Shore, this trail has everything you need to see on O'ahu.

The Ke'ana Point Trail winds along the shore of O'ahu from Waianae on the West to Mokuleia on the North. You'll have the chance to see monk seals and multiple species of protected birds.

To access this hike from Honolulu drive West on the H1 towards Waianae. Eventually the H1 will become Farrington Highway and you'll eventually reach Yokohama Beach where the road will end. There is a parking lot on the right hand side with a wash station and flush toilets. Parking is free, as is access to this trail.

I'd recommend taking a few moments to absorb the view from the beach before heading north along the trail. The trail starts off as a fairly wide dirt road, so it's pretty obvious when you're looking North. This hike has absolutely zero shade, none at all. Make sure you take ample sun protection and much more water than you anticipate needing. Keep in mind that you have to return out the same way you came (unless you leave another car stationed at the opposite end of the trail). After about 2.5 miles you will reach a gate indicating you are entering into a Nature Reserve. Make sure you read the signage closely and follow the rules before continuing through the double door entrance.

This hike is absolutely stunning. There are amazing ocean views along the entire trail and many spots to explore down to the shore. Be careful, of course, of wave breaks and tide changes but you can find some of the best snorkeling on the island along this shoreline. During the winter months keep your eyes open for whales breaching off the shore, it's a very popular whale and dolphin sighting spot as well!

I'd recommend planning a swim post hike at the beach! Looking to treat yourself after the hike and swim, head up to Haleiwa and hit up Matsumoto for shave ice.

Pack List

Swimsuit

Camera

Sun block

Hat

Water

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Reviews

This was a really nice way to see the west side of the island. The views from the trail don't really change so it's a bit monotonous but nevertheless a beautiful hike. You can actually see the birds' eggs hatch in the first two weeks of February so that was cool. Like I said, very cool hike if you're on the west side but I would recommend hiking on the east side much more!

It's a 2 mile walk, nothing about it is a hike. Flat dirt road that brings you to some save the birds sanctuary. We went out there for the sunset which was blocked by a storm out on the water. There is an old railroad tunnel that was cemented closed to keep people out of. That cement has slightly broken apart and there is a hole you can climb into. That hole opens up to a tunnel large enough to drive a car through. Bring a few flashlights/headlamps with you. We only went about 100 yards because we had one headlamp but apparently it goes far if your up for a dark challenge. The tunnel is outside of the fence area, dead in the middle of the curve of the hill. You will see cement plastered on to the side of the hill and there is a small trail leading up to it. The cave was the coolest part of the walk. The point smells like bird crap, because it's everywhere!

Ka'ena point is an awesome area!! I accessed it from the north shore and was lucky enough to see 3 monk seals chilling on the shore. Being as they are so rare, it is neat to see them in person and be able to take pictures of them!
The views are well worth the trek, but the addition of the animals was icing on the cake!